* McIlroy regains world number one ranking with win
* Repels early Poulter charge to win second major crown
* Woods finishes 11 off the pace after a 72
(Adds quotes, detail)
By Mark Lamport-Stokes
KIAWAH ISLAND, South Carolina, Aug 12 (Reuters) – Northern
Ireland’s Rory McIlroy repelled an early onslaught by Britain’s
Ian Poulter before cruising to his second major title by a
record eight shots at the PGA Championship on Sunday.
The 23-year-old McIlroy, who started the final round with a
three-shot lead, needed only 23 putts as he carded a flawless
six-under-par 66 that gave him a 13-under total of 275 in the
year’s last major.
The world number three sank a 20-foot putt from just off the
green to birdie the par-four 18th in glorious late afternoon
sunshine at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, then lifted his putter
skywards in celebration.
“I don’t think I have let it sink in yet but it was a great
round of golf,” the mop-haired Northern Irishman said after
being presented with the Wanamaker Trophy. “I am speechless.
“It’s been an incredible week. I had a good feeling about it
at the start and I never imagined to do this.”
Continued…
